OpenAI Abandons GPT-4.5: The End of an AI Era

OpenAI Ends the GPT-4 Era with the Retirement of GPT-4.5

OpenAI's GPT-4.5, the last representative of the GPT-4 generation, is set to leave the stage, marking the end of an era for artificial intelligence. Since its introduction, GPT-4 has played a crucial role in transforming AI, evolving from a mere technological curiosity to an indispensable tool. Three years after its launch, OpenAI is preparing to turn the page.

With the retirement of GPT-4.5, the final remnant of this generation will disappear from ChatGPT. This departure leaves behind a legacy that some users still find hard to match. The model has been a cornerstone of the recent AI revolution, and its disappearance signifies a significant turning point.

A Planned Transition to New Models

The removal of GPT-4.5 at OpenAI will not happen overnight. The company has confirmed that GPT-4.5 will be retired from ChatGPT starting June 27, 2026. The reasoning model o3 will follow on August 26, after a transition period. Thus, paying users still have a few weeks to enjoy these models before their definitive withdrawal.

This decision is part of a strategy aimed at focusing OpenAI's resources on newer and more powerful models. The new generations of models promise enhanced performance, faster responses, and expanded capabilities, which motivates this shift in direction.

The Legacy of GPT-4

Reducing GPT-4 to a mere obsolete version would overlook its significant impact. At its launch, the model impressed with its versatility. It was capable of writing, analyzing images, solving problems, and conversing with a fluency rarely seen before. For many, this was the moment when AI transitioned from being a fascinating gadget to a truly useful tool.

Mixed Reactions from Users

On X, several users expressed their disappointment regarding this retirement. Some believe that GPT-4.5 remained particularly effective for writing, while others appreciated the specific behavior of the o3 model.

This reaction may seem paradoxical, as newer models often show better performance in benchmarks. However, the numbers do not tell the whole story. As AI assistants evolve, users also develop habits. A particular tone, a way of responding, or even a certain "personality" can create a form of attachment. This explains why some still miss GPT-4o, despite the arrival of more advanced versions.

In short, today, OpenAI believes that the successors to GPT-4 are ready to take over. Perhaps they are right. Maybe in a few months, no one will think of GPT-4. Or perhaps some will continue to refer to it as that old version that "wrote better before."